A man who murdered a stranger in south London has been jailed for 22 years.
Robbie Munoz, 22, repeatedly stabbed dad-of-two Reece Williams, 29, near the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, after the two had a “petty argument”.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics and his friends, Reece died shortly after the attack.
In court, Munoz said he’d acted in self-defence but witnesses contradicted his account.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Wood, who led the investigation, said: “Reece’s death tragically illustrates the awful consequences that carrying weapons can bring.
“What started off as a petty argument led to one man being murdered and another spending a considerable amount of time in prison.
“Our thoughts remain with Reece’s family and friends who have been left devastated by his death.”
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Witnesses described how, on July 31, 2021, Reece approached Munoz and the pair had an argument before Reece punched him.
Believing the dispute was over, Reece walked away. But the court heard that Munoz produced a 25cm blade from his rucksack and gave chase.
Reece’s friends tried to intervene but could not prevent Munoz from stabbing Reece several times.
Officers descended on the scene and found Munoz close to the scene, who’d sustained a stab wound to himself during his attack.
He was arrested and later charged with murder.
Detectives also found a sheath for the knife near the scene with forensic evidence linking it to Munoz.
The knife was discovered in a bin shed at a nearby block of flats.
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Munoz was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, June 1.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Wood, who led the investigation, said: “Our investigation made it very clear that Munoz had no qualms about carrying a knife or using it against anyone who got in his way.
“It took just seconds for him to take another life and that is why our top priority continues to be identifying those who carry weapons and are intent on causing violence.
“Last year saw a significant decrease in knife crime but we know there is more to do and our officers will continue using everything in their power to target those intent on committing violent crime on our streets.”
Anyone who has any information about knife crime is urged to get in touch with police or Crimestoppers 100 anonymously on 0800 555 111. No piece of information is too small.
